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“Ego contraction” refers to the feeling of being a separate, limited individual, which can manifest physically as tension or emotionally as defensiveness or frustration. This state is a result of the ego identifying with thoughts, beliefs, and emotions, creating a sense of a small, isolated self that is distinct from the unbounded “True Self” or pure awareness. Overcoming ego contraction involves practices like mindfulness and observing one’s physical and emotional reactions to loosen the ego’s hold. 

Understanding ego contraction

• A sense of separateness: Ego contraction is the feeling of being an isolated individual, bared to the bones of separateness, with boundaries that feel rigid and limiting.
• Physical manifestation: It can be experienced in the body as tension, often in the jaw, shoulders, and abdomen, or as a tightness in the chest or a knot in the stomach.
• Emotional and mental state: It is associated with a sense of frustration, emptiness, or defensiveness, and can be triggered by challenges to one’s beliefs.
• Habitual and unconscious: This state of contraction can become habitual and go unnoticed until a difficult situation arises. 

How it relates to the “True Self”

• The ego is a contraction: The ego, as a knot of mental constructs, is a “contraction” of consciousness that gives the illusion of a separate, individual self.
• The True Self: In contrast, the True Self is described as pure awareness or consciousness, which is unbounded and not limited by the ego’s boundaries.
• Expanding beyond the ego: Spiritual practices aim to loosen the ego’s structure to allow for a sense of buoyancy, freedom, and connection to the True Self. 

How to address ego contraction

• Mindfulness and observation: Become aware of the physical tension and emotional reactions that indicate ego contraction.
• Release tension: Consciously release tension in the body, noticing areas like the jaw, shoulders, and abdomen that tend to tighten.
• Observe the “I-thought”: Pay attention to the source of the “I-thought” to begin dissolving the ego’s hold.
• Avoid resistance: Trying to “get rid of” the ego can sustain it. Instead, allow it to fall away by observing it without resistance, as the act of trying to get rid of it is often driven by the ego itself.